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June 27, 2026

Chattooga County Unemployment Rate Edges Up In May

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Chattooga County’s unemployment rate edged slightly higher in May, according to newly released figures from the Georgia Department of Labor.

The county posted a jobless rate of 3.8 percent for May, up from 3.7 percent in April. Despite the small monthly increase, the local rate remains relatively low as Georgia continues to report strong employment numbers statewide.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said May traditionally brings a new wave of workers into the job market as graduates begin looking for employment. She said Georgia’s growing workforce remains one of the reasons companies continue to invest across the state.

Statewide, Georgia has now surpassed 5 million jobs, a milestone labor officials say reflects continued opportunity for both new workers and experienced professionals.

For Chattooga County, the latest numbers show a modest increase in unemployment heading into the summer months, while the overall labor market remains steady.

June 12, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Housing Market Shows Steady Activity in May

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The housing market in Chattooga County continued to show steady activity during May 2026 as the spring home-buying season remained in full swing across Northwest Georgia.

June 7, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Among Highest Poverty Rates in Northwest Georgia, New Data Shows

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Nearly one out of every five residents in Chattooga County lives below the federal poverty line, giving the county one of the highest poverty rates in Northwest Georgia, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and regional economic reports.

May 26, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Manufacturing Continues To Drive Chattooga County Economy

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Manufacturing remains the leading employment sector in Chattooga County, continuing its long-standing role as the backbone of the local economy.

May 25, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Rising Gas Prices Creating Financial Strain For Chattooga County Commuters

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High gasoline prices are continuing to put financial pressure on thousands of Chattooga County residents who travel outside the county each day for work.

May 25, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

SBA Drought Disaster Loans Available For Chattooga County Businesses

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Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available for eligible small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Chattooga County affected by ongoing drought conditions.

May 11, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Housing Market Remains Active During Spring Selling Season

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The housing market in Chattooga County remained active during April 2026 as buyers and sellers continued to take advantage of the busy spring real estate season.

May 8, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Drops To 3.3 Percent

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The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a point over the month to 3.3 percent.

That compares to 3.2 percent one year ago.

The region’s labor force increased by 2,155 over the month and by 4,086 over the year, reaching 459,952, an all-time high. The number of employed residents also rose, increasing by 2,996 over the month and 3,515 over the year to 444,625, also an all-time high.

Initial unemployment claims were up by 718 over the month and by 852 over the year, reaching 2,557.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the numbers are a strong sign during Economic Development Week, noting that more Georgians are securing jobs that support families and strengthen communities.

April 10, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Sees Higher Share Of Workers Filing Unemployment Claims As Jobless Rate Holds Near 4%

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New labor data released on Thursday by the Georgia Department of Labor shows Chattooga County continues to see a higher share of workers filing unemployment claims compared to neighboring counties, as overall unemployment remains steady heading into the spring.

April 7, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Gas Prices Still Climbing Higher Amid Global Tensions

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Ongoing fighting in the Middle East is driving oil prices higher, which is pushing gas prices up across Georgia and the nation. However, Georgia’s gas tax suspension is helping slow how quickly prices are rising.